What is a UPS?

A UPS is a power protection device that will regulate the incoming power to acceptable parameters and will
also supply a limited amount of power when there is no mains power.

It has a number of functions, designed to protect almost all electronic devices.

To understand why this device is so important, it may help to understand power a little better.

If you have witnessed in the past flickering lights in your home or office, computer freezing up or restarting,
then you may be suffering a power supply problem.

What many people do not realise is that the power provided to their home or office is at times irregular and not necessarily continuous 230volts supply. The ideal voltage supply is 230v. However, even in residential areas, this can often be over 260v, or under 200v. It can get even worse in industrial areas if you live near or work in these zones due to machinery being used and the drop in power that is drawing from these zones.

A basic standby UPS can sense the voltage is not good enough, and will automatically go to battery power until normal power returns.

Other units can adjust the voltage for the connected equipment to keep it at safe levels. High-end UPS models can give a perfectly stable output of 230v at all times regardless of input power.

Other common power problem can be surges and spikes. This is where the incoming voltage jumps rapidly.